Motivation and Emotion Glossary

The drive to accomplish challenging goals and meet high standards of excellence, studied extensively by David McClelland.

A state of physiological and psychological activation ranging from deep sleep to intense excitement, central to several theories of emotion and motivation.

In self-determination theory, the need to feel in control of one own behavior and goals, a key driver of intrinsic motivation.

The mental process of evaluating a situation personal significance, which according to Lazarus determines the emotional response.

In self-determination theory, the need to feel effective and capable in interactions with the environment.

An internal state of tension caused by an unmet physiological need, which motivates behavior aimed at reducing the tension.

The ability to perceive, use, understand, and manage emotions effectively in oneself and others.

Motivation arising from external rewards (money, grades, praise) or avoidance of punishment rather than inherent interest in the activity.

The body tendency to maintain a stable internal environment. Drive-reduction theory proposes that motivation arises from disruptions to homeostasis.

An external stimulus that motivates behavior by offering a reward or the avoidance of a negative outcome.

Motivation arising from internal satisfaction, curiosity, or enjoyment of the activity itself rather than external incentives.

A five-level motivational pyramid: physiological, safety, belongingness/love, esteem, self-actualization.

Incorrectly identifying the cause of one physiological arousal, leading to mislabeled emotions.

The decrease in intrinsic motivation that occurs when external rewards are given for an already enjoyable activity.

In self-determination theory, the need to feel connected to and cared about by others.

The realization of one full potential; the highest level in Maslow hierarchy of needs.

Deci and Ryan theory that intrinsic motivation depends on satisfying needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Schachter and Singer theory that emotion requires both physiological arousal and cognitive interpretation of that arousal.

The principle that moderate arousal produces optimal performance, with the relationship forming an inverted-U curve.